Taylor to fill education post

Created 06/25/2001 - 11:00pm

Faye Taylor, a former assistant commissioner in the administration of Lamar Alexander, was appointed Monday to fill out the term of Education Commissioner Vernon Coffey.

Taylor is a former classroom teacher and a principal in Robertson County. Taylor, 51, was director of elementary education, director of K-12 curriculum development and assistant commissioner during a five-year period under Alexander.

She holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Middle Tennessee State University, a master's and an education specialist degree from Austin Peay State University and has completed course work for a doctorate.

"It is crucial that the governor's reading initiative is funded and implemented, and I will do everything I can to make that happen," Taylor said.

Gov. Don Sundquist said Taylor "has dedicated her entire career to helping Tennessee children receive a qualify education."

Taylor lives in Springfield and will begin duties as commissioner Aug. 1.